RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing and RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing - Nursing Student Guide 2020-2021 ...
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RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing and
RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing to
Master of Science in Nursing
Nursing Student Guide
2020-2021 Edition
Table of Contents
Welcome to the Davis & Henley College of Nursing ....................................................................................6
Section I: Mission & Philosophy ...................................................................................................................7
1.1 Accreditation ......................................................................................................................................7
1.2 Mission & Philosophy .........................................................................................................................7
Mission of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing ...............................................................................7
Philosophy of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing ..........................................................................7
1.3 Organizational Framework of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing ...............................................8
1.4 Programs of Study ..............................................................................................................................8
Section II: College of Nursing General Information......................................................................................9
2.1 Communication Practices...................................................................................................................9
2.2 Student Services .................................................................................................................................9
Ryan Matura Library.............................................................................................................................9
IT Support .............................................................................................................................................9
Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center ..................................................................................................10
Sheila Hamilton Student Success Center............................................................................................10
2.3 Complaint & Grievance Procedures .................................................................................................11
The Policy and Procedure for Formal Student Complaints ................................................................11
Complaints Against the Program Falling Outside Due Process ..........................................................11
2.4 Grade Grievance Policy ....................................................................................................................13
2.5 Writing Policy ...................................................................................................................................13
2.6 Confidentiality Policy........................................................................................................................13
2.7 Videotaping & Audio Recording Policy.............................................................................................13
2.8 Social Media Policy ...........................................................................................................................13
2.9 Felony Conviction .............................................................................................................................14
2.10 Unusual Occurrence .......................................................................................................................14
2.11 Global Learning Programs ..............................................................................................................15
2.12 Student Advisory Representation...................................................................................................15
2.13 Selected University Policies............................................................................................................16
Academic Integrity .............................................................................................................................16
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)................................................................................................16
Sexual Assault Policy ..........................................................................................................................16
Procedures for Individuals Claiming Unlawful Discrimination/Harassment.......................................16
Accessibility Statement ......................................................................................................................17
Section III: RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing and RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of
Science in Nursing Online Program Specific Policies ..................................................................................17
3.1 Programmatic Student Learning Outcomes .....................................................................................17
RN to BSN Student Learning Outcomes .............................................................................................17 RN to BSN to MSN Student Learning Outcomes.................................................................................18 3.2 Academic Advisement Policy............................................................................................................19 Academic Advisement Procedure ......................................................................................................20 SHU Online Course Access..................................................................................................................20 Plan of Study Approval Process ..........................................................................................................21 3.3 Registration Policy............................................................................................................................21 Registration Procedure.......................................................................................................................21 Number of Courses Permitted to Enroll in per Module .....................................................................22 Nursing License Requirement ............................................................................................................22 3.4 Grading Policy...................................................................................................................................22 Policy for RN to BSN Students ............................................................................................................22 Policy for RN to BSN to MSN Students ...............................................................................................22 Rounding of Grade Policy: ..................................................................................................................23 3.5 Adherence to Professional Nursing Standards .................................................................................23 Policy ..................................................................................................................................................23 Nursing Professional Behaviors ..........................................................................................................24 Communication “Netiquette” ............................................................................................................25 Specific Standards for Clinical/Lab/Simulation...................................................................................25 3.6 Just Culture.......................................................................................................................................25 Just Culture Policy ..............................................................................................................................26 Definitions ..........................................................................................................................................26 Behaviors not included in this policy:.................................................................................................26 Just Culture Procedure .......................................................................................................................27 Categories of Practice Events and Outcomes.....................................................................................27 Systems Issues....................................................................................................................................27 3.7 Academic Performance Course Progression ....................................................................................28 RN to BSN ...........................................................................................................................................28 RN to BSN to MSN ..............................................................................................................................28 3.8 Academic Standards .........................................................................................................................29 Program Warnings..............................................................................................................................30 Academic Program Probation ............................................................................................................30 Dismissal from the Davis & Henley College of Nursing ......................................................................31 Academic Standards Committee Procedure ......................................................................................32 Appeal Process for Probation and Dismissal ......................................................................................33 Probation and Dismissal Appeal Procedure .......................................................................................33 3.9 Chain of Command ...........................................................................................................................34
3.10 Leave of Absence............................................................................................................................34 Policy ..................................................................................................................................................34 Procedure: Request for LOA...............................................................................................................35 Procedure: Return from LOA..............................................................................................................35 3.11 Administrative Withdrawal ............................................................................................................35 Policy and Procedure..........................................................................................................................35 3.12 Course Withdrawal.........................................................................................................................36 3.13 Incomplete .....................................................................................................................................36 3.14 Change in Curriculum & Continuous Enrollment/Inactive .............................................................37 Matriculation......................................................................................................................................37 Procedure ...........................................................................................................................................37 3.15 Transfer Credit................................................................................................................................38 Transfer Credit Policy .........................................................................................................................38 Transfer Credit Procedure ..................................................................................................................38 Transfer Credit for Prerequisite Science Courses Taken in a Non-Collegiate Setting (Schools of Nursing) Policy....................................................................................................................................39 Transfer Credit for Prerequisite Science Courses Taken in a Non-Collegiate Setting (Schools of Nursing) Procedure ............................................................................................................................39 3.16 Student Fees...................................................................................................................................39 3.17 Test Taking Policy ...........................................................................................................................39 3.18 Essential Attributes & Functional Abilities .....................................................................................40 Policy ..................................................................................................................................................40 Procedure ...........................................................................................................................................40 3.19 Late Assignment Policy...................................................................................................................40 3.20 SHU Student ID Policy.....................................................................................................................41 3.21 Student Practice Requirements......................................................................................................41 Health Requirements Documentation ...............................................................................................41 Health Accounts .................................................................................................................................41 CPR Certification.................................................................................................................................42 Drug Screening Policy.........................................................................................................................42 Criminal Background Checks/Special Considerations ........................................................................42 License Requirements ........................................................................................................................42 Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training .............................................................................................43 3.22 Clinical Placement Process .............................................................................................................43 RN to BSN and RN to BSN to MSN ......................................................................................................43 Practicum Experience.........................................................................................................................44 3.23 E*Value...........................................................................................................................................44
3.24 Malpractice Insurance ....................................................................................................................44
3.25 Latex/Allergy Policy ........................................................................................................................45
Latex Allergy & Other Health Care Product(s) Allergy Policy .............................................................45
Latex/Allergy Procedure.....................................................................................................................45
3.26 Cell Phone Policy ............................................................................................................................46
3.27 Dress Code Policy ...........................................................................................................................46
General Attire.....................................................................................................................................46
Jewelry................................................................................................................................................46
Nail Guidelines ...................................................................................................................................46
Miscellaneous.....................................................................................................................................46
3.28 Graduation Applications.................................................................................................................46
Undergraduate (BSN) Students ..........................................................................................................46
Graduate (MSN) Students ..................................................................................................................47
3.29 Honors Distinction..........................................................................................................................47
Latin Graduation Honors ....................................................................................................................47
3.30 Recommended Websites ...............................................................................................................48
Appendix A: Unusual Occurrence Report...................................................................................................49
Appendix B: Global Learning Application Rubric........................................................................................51
Appendix C: Essential Attributes & Functional Abilities for Davis & Henley College of Nursing Students.52
Appendix D: Student Success Plan .............................................................................................................58
Appendix E: Student Practice Event Evaluation Tool (SPEET) ....................................................................59
Appendix F: Personal Leave of Absence Request Form .............................................................................64
Appendix G: Online Program Warning Form..............................................................................................65Welcome to the Davis & Henley College of Nursing
Dear Nursing Student:
Welcome to Sacred Heart University’s Davis & Henley College of Nursing (DHCON)! We are
delighted you have chosen to join our community of students, faculty and alumni. Together we
will create a vibrant community of learners, teachers, and scholars to prepare nurses for all
aspects of professional practice in an ever-changing and challenging world of health care.
The DHCON is committed to the success of each student. Your academic advisor, course and
clinical faculty will be partners in your academic journey, so please always ask for the guidance
and support you need.
The Nursing Student Guide is the official student handbook and provides essential DHCON
policies and procedures for academic progression and graduation. This guide is intended to
supplement the University Catalog and provide information specific to the nursing programs. All
students are expected to review and abide by the current Nursing Student Guide.
Please be sure to read this document and use it as a reference during the school year. If
policies and/or procedures change during the academic year, they will be posted on the
DHCON website and via student Sacred Heart University email.
On behalf of the faculty and staff, we wish you all the best and much success.
Cordially,
Mary Alice Donius, EdD, RN
Dean, Davis & Henley College of Nursing
Tammy A. Testut
Tammy A. Testut, PhD, RN, CNE, NEA-BC
Program Director, RN to BSN and RN to BSN to MSN Program
Notices:
1. This guide is subject to change with written electronic notification. Any policy changes
will be posted on the DHCON website.
2. If any provision of this Guide is held by a legally binding authority to be unenforceable,
the remainder of the Guide shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be
impaired.
3. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information provided in this Guide,
accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Sacred Heart University reserves the right to make
changes at any time without prior notice. The University provides this information in this
Guide solely for the convenience of the reader, who may not rely upon it as a promise or
legal obligation. Sacred Heart University expressly disclaims any liability based on the
contents.Section I: Mission & Philosophy
1.1 Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, and the
Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Sacred Heart University are accredited by the
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC
20001, 202-887-6791.
1.2 Mission & Philosophy
Mission of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing
The mission of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing (DHCON) at Sacred Heart University is
consistent with the mission of the University and as such seeks to integrate the Catholic
Intellectual Tradition in the philosophy, curricula, teaching activities, and scholarship of the
DHCON. This tradition aims to assist in the development of graduates who are knowledgeable
of self, rooted in faith, educated in mind, compassionate in heart, responsive to social and civic
obligations, and able to respond to the ever-changing world.
The faculty of the DHCON work together as a community of educators to cultivate the personal
and professional development of students. Faculty create formal and informal learning
environments that engage students in the synthesis of their unique gifts, talents, and skills with
the beliefs, values, and methods of professional nursing. They are engaged in practice and in
service to the community which is reflected in innovative learning environments and curricula.
The DHCON prepares students at the baccalaureate, masters and doctoral levels. All programs
recognize that nursing excellence is grounded in practice. The baccalaureate-nursing curriculum
prepares competent, ethical, caring practitioners to function as generalists in any type of health
care setting. Building upon the knowledge acquired in undergraduate education, the masters
and doctoral nursing programs prepare students for advanced roles in leadership and clinical
practice and clinical education.
Philosophy of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing
The Faculty of the DHCON believe the following tenets of Nursing:
The faculty and staff of the DHCON believe the philosophy of nursing is expressed in the
definition that nursing is caring with compassion, empathy, altruism with the intention of healing
body, mind, spirit.
Nursing
• Nursing is an evolving professional discipline, based on research and grounded in the
liberal arts, sciences, and humanities. These disciplines support the science of nursing,
providing the framework for scholarship, practice, and nursing education.
• Nursing practice is an art grounded in the science of nursing whose purpose is to assist
the person(s) sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health
and healing, recovery from illness, or to a peaceful death.
• Professional values that are representative of nursing include altruism, autonomy,
integrity, excellence, empathy, compassion, caring, ethics, respect, communication,
social justice, and accountability.
Health
• Health is a dynamic state of being that can coexist with illness or disease.• Health is influenced by one’s history, as well as physical, developmental, cultural,
psychological, social, economic, environmental and spiritual factors.
Nursing Practice
• The practice of nursing is relational, scientific, research oriented, and evidence based.
• Nursing’s clients are individuals, families, groups, aggregates, or populations to whom
care may be delivered through direct or indirect interventions using the nursing process.
• The nurse works with clients to identify strategies to maximize their health and healing
through interventions that promote maintain or restore health.
• Nursing practice incorporates professional standards within an ethical framework.
• The nurse must think critically and work collaboratively with clients and other health
professionals.
Nursing Education
• Nursing education fosters the students’ understanding of the relationship between
nursing science and nursing practice, while building on prior knowledge.
• Learning requires a shared expectation and commitment between faculty and students
resulting in positive affective, cognitive, and psychomotor changes.
• Faculty must recognize diverse learning styles and provide a variety of assistive and
teaching strategies to meet the needs of students.
• Nursing education is grounded in practice. This education promotes professional
behavior attitudes that result in nursing competence through the use of critical thinking
within an ethical and caring-healing context.
1.3 Organizational Framework of the Davis & Henley College of Nursing
The organizational framework for each program is grounded in the AACN Degree Program
Essentials and identified as the program Student Learning Outcomes. Please see Section III 3.1
for the specifics.
1.4 Programs of Study
Specific information regarding the various degrees awarded at Sacred Heart University will be
found on the DHCON website or brochures available from the DHCON. As of fall 2020, the
following options are available:
• Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing-First Professional Degree
• Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing – Second Degree Accelerated
• Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing – RN to BSN Completion*
• RN to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – (NMEL, Nursing Education and CNL)*
• MSN Nursing Management & Executive Leadership (NMEL)*
• MSN Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)*
• MSN Nursing Education*
• MSN Family Nurse Practitioner*
• Post-Baccalaureate Family Nurse Practitioner DNP**
• Post Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)*
• Home Health Care Management for RNs Certificate*
• Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education*
• Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Management & Executive Leadership*
*Available for online study**Approximately 50% or more of program available online. Section II: College of Nursing General Information 2.1 Communication Practices Sacred Heart University email is the official method of communication. Students are responsible for checking their Sacred Heart University email every 48 hours. Students, faculty, and staff are expected to establish and maintain their email accounts so that they will receive important communications in a timely manner. The University’s email policy may be accessed through the Sacred Heart University Information Technology Policies. The DHCON uses several communication strategies to promote information exchange and involvement. SHU email is the official means of communication. Course-specific Blackboard sites where direct email messages to individuals and groups are frequently used to communicate important information to students. Faculty schedule and post regular office hours each semester. Faculty will announce or post procedures for contacting and/or scheduling appointments. Course faculty office hours are posted on the syllabus and/or office door. Students may request letters of reference from faculty by emailing the individual faculty member. 2.2 Student Services Information regarding all student services is located on the Sacred Heart University website as well as in the university catalog. The most updated information is found on the website under the respective area. The following services are highlighted to ensure students are aware of these services: Ryan Matura Library Library services are an integral part of learning and many services can be accessed to support and enhance learning. Local students can utilize the Ryan Matura Library on campus. Students can go to their website to access resources and obtain research assistance. The DHCON has a designated Health Sciences Librarian, who can be reached at 203-365- 4873. Students may email a Reference Librarian at reference@sacredheart.edu or call the Reference Desk at 203-371-7726. IT Support “The Factory” houses the Help Desk as well as the Information Technology (IT) Call Center. They provide support for all IT related services and questions regarding general technical support, such as emails, Blackboard, etc. IT can be reached at 1-866-365-7575/203-365-7575 or directly at ext. 7575 from any university phone. In addition, students may initiate an online trouble ticket. If the trouble ticket cannot be resolved over the phone, it can be escalated either to on-site support or to Level 2 IT support where a staff member responsible will address the issue
directly. The trouble tickets are added to a queue and are resolved on a first come first serve basis unless it is deemed an emergency. Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center The Wellness Center is located at 4980 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT. Health Services Health Services provides accessible, comprehensive and cost-effective primary health care and educational outreach. To call for an appointment, dial 203-371-7838. Counseling Center The Counseling Center at Sacred Heart University is a free, confidential resource providing individual and group counseling and other mental health support for students. Services are available by appointment only. Call for an appointment, dial 203-371-7955. If you are experiencing or witnessing an emergency, call Public Safety at 203-371-7911 or 911. Sheila Hamilton Student Success Center The Sheila Hamilton Student Success Center is located at 5060 Park Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06825-1000. The Jandrisevits Learning Center (JLC) provides academic support for all SHU students. JLC staff work with faculty to support course objectives and enhance students’ skills and knowledge with the goal that each student evolves as a lifelong learner. Academic support can play an instrumental role in student success by building self-confidence and self- awareness, and promoting self-directed learning. JLC staff recognizes that every student is a unique learner and strives to offer learning strategies that respond to each student’s needs. The JLC offers the following support services free of charge to all SHU students: Academic Support Services include 1-on-1 tutoring with professional and peer tutors; group study sessions for particular courses by Classroom Learning Assistants (CLAs); monthly workshops on specific academic and life skills; specialized Learning Labs in math, critical reading and writing, and online writing support (OWL). Special Learning Services provides instructional accommodations and services for students with documented disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These services include testing accommodations and assistive technology tools. Students who have a disability or special learning need requiring reasonable accommodations should contact the JLC at 203-371-7820. Students with diagnosed learning disabilities, which require course, laboratory, and/or examination modifications, are required to meet with the JLC staff at the start of each course. Documentation of any modifications must be provided to the course instructor 96 hours prior to the first exam, and no later than one month after a course begins. It is the responsibility of the student to coordinate testing arrangements (if necessary) with the JLC, and to confirm such accommodations with the course instructor at least three (3) days prior to the first exam. Please note: The JLC requires a 72-hour prep time for a student to test in the Learning Center. To schedule an appointment, visit the Jandrisevits Learning Center scheduling system.
2.3 Complaint & Grievance Procedures
Students are encouraged to raise issues and concerns regarding courses, policies, procedures,
or other activities of the DHCON. To achieve best results and hasten the resolution process,
students are asked to use the following guidelines. For course related issues, students should
first approach the course faculty and then the course coordinator if applicable. If the issue
cannot be resolved at this level, students should next bring the matter to the attention of the
Director of the program. If the issues remains unresolved, the next step would be to address the
concern with the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs of the DHCON, and finally the Dean of the
DHCON.
If the topic of concern is a broader program or personal issue, students should first meet with
their faculty advisor who will assist in resolving the issue and/or deciding upon appropriate next
steps, including meeting with the Director of the program, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs,
or with the Dean of the DHCON.
The Policy and Procedure for Formal Student Complaints
The following complaints and formal resolutions are not covered by this policy as other formal
processes are available through the University and take precedence over this policy including:
• Academic issues of dismissal and integrity
• Grade grievances
• Sexual harassment
• Disability issues
• Discrimination issues
The formal complaint procedure is designed to resolve problems for students who are having
difficulties with other students, staff, or faculty that cannot be resolved through an informal
resolution process or for which no other University process exists for remedy.
Complaints Against the Program Falling Outside Due Process
The faculty and staff of the DHCON strive to demonstrate a high level of ethical values and
professionalism in all its activities. In some cases, a situation may generate complaint for which
no formal grievance process exists. The complaint should be written, signed, include details
about the complaint as well as documented evidence and mailed to:
Program Director, Davis & Henley College of Nursing
Sacred Heart University
5151 Park Avenue
Fairfield, CT 06825
Please include contact information so the Program Director can reach you in order to resolve
the complaint.
The following outlines the process for handling a complaint against the Program:
• When possible, the Program Director will discuss the complaint directly with the party
involved within 14 business days. The expectation is that the complaint can be
satisfactorily resolved by this discussion. The Program Director will provide a written
description of the resolution to the complainant.• If dissatisfied with the outcome of the discussion with the Program Director, or if the
complaint is against the Program Director, the complainant may submit a written
complaint to the Dean of the DHCON. The Program Director will provide the Dean with a
written summary of previous discussions if applicable.
• The Dean will discuss the matter with the Program Director and complainant separately
and may schedule a joint appointment or conference call with the Program Director and
complainant in attempt to reach a solution.
• The Dean will provide the complainant and the Program Director with a written letter
outlining the solution reached through this step.
• If the complainant remains dissatisfied with the resolution provided, the last line of
complaint is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of Sacred Heart
University.
• Any letters or documentation associated with the complaint from the complainant, the
Program Director, Dean, or Provost will be kept in a confidential folder marked
“Complaints against Programs” in the DHCON program’s file for a period of five years.
Potential complaints against the program regarding CCNE accreditation:
All programs within the Davis & Henley College of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on
Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). A complaint against an accredited program may be
submitted by anyone, including students, faculty, staff, administrators, nurses, patients,
employee, or the public. The CCNE Board considers formal requests for implementation of the
complaint process provided that the complainant. Criteria for the complaint are: a) illustration of
the full nature of the complaint in writing, describing how CCNE standards or procedures have
been violated, and b) willingness of the complaint to allow CCNE to notify the program and the
parent institution of the exact nature of the complaint, including the identity of the originator of
the complaint. The Board may take whatever action it deems appropriate regarding verbal
complaints, complaints that are submitted anonymously, or complaints in which the complainant
has not given consent to being identified. Complaints may be directed to:
CCNE Complaints Administrator
655 K Street, NW
Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
202-887-6791
Public comments or complaints against the program regarding regional NEASC
accreditation:
New England Commission of Higher Education’s (NECHE) Commission on Institutions of Higher
Education (CIHE) is the regional accrediting body for colleges and universities in New England.
CIHE receives both public comments and complaints. Public Comments consist of observations
about the quality of the University and its programs based on an individual’s experience.
Comments must be substantive but need not include evidence and may be written or emailed.
Complaints must be written, signed, and meet CIHE’s criteria for complaints. CIHE’s complaint
criteria, procedures for filing complaints, and links may be found on their website.
Public comments or complaints against the program regarding
The Connecticut Office of Higher Education is responsible for quality review of independent
colleges located in Connecticut. If you believe that the University or DHCON has not fulfilled its
promises, you may file a complaint with the Office of Higher Education:Office of Higher Education 450 Columbus Boulevard, Suite 510 Hartford, CT 06103-1841 800-842-0229 2.4 Grade Grievance Policy As noted in published policy, a student’s dissatisfaction with a course grade is, in general, not sufficient grounds for warranting a grievance. Specific grounds for grade grievances and procedures to be followed are specified in the policy and students are reminded that a grade grievance must be presented within six (6) months after the original grade was issued. The university catalog contains the grade grievance policy and procedure and can be accessed on the Sacred Heart University website. 2.5 Writing Policy Rationale: It is important to have consistency in writing standards for both students and faculty. The American Psychological Association (APA) is the most commonly used set of writing standards in nursing professional literature. All nursing courses require use of APA standards for writing. In most cases, a number of grading points will be allocated to a style category; thus, failure to use APA standards will likely lower a student’s grade on written assignments. All assignments must comply with the published University Academic Integrity Policy, including the DHCON policy regarding resubmission of prior written work. 2.6 Confidentiality Policy Students must be aware and understand that the verbal or electronic disclosure of any examination materials or simulation scenarios including the nature or content of examination items, before, during, or after the examination is prohibited. Copying of examination items and related rationales during test review is also prohibited. Students who are aware of or have observed an attempt to compromise examination materials or processes should report the incident to the faculty. The student who has violated the confidentiality policy may face potentially serious consequences, up to and including dismissal from the program. 2.7 Videotaping & Audio Recording Policy Videotaping and audio recording of students of the DHCON may be a required component for successful completion of courses offered in the nursing programs. The videotaping and audio recording occur in the laboratory settings or other places where learning occurs. The recordings may be viewed by course faculty and peers as appropriate. 2.8 Social Media Policy Nursing students have a responsibility to understand the benefits and consequences of participating in social media. Social media in this context is defined as web-based and mobile platforms for user generated content that create interactive and highly accessible, and often public dialogues. It is imperative that student nurses maintain the awareness they are contributing to the global image of nursing, and are representing the nursing profession through intended or unintended outcomes of social media usage both in personal and professional settings of the College, the University, and clinical affiliating agencies. It is in this context that the student nurse may face potentially serious consequences for inappropriate use of social media, up to and including dismissal from the program.
Photographs, video, and any other digital media should demonstrate individual professionalism and be consistent with Sacred Heart University’s mission and values. Inadvertently or intentionally breaching patient confidentiality/privacy may occur through a variety of situations and circumstances. Nursing students must be concerned with HIPAA guidelines and maintaining confidentiality and a professional image. Any breach of confidentiality, privacy, or posting of inappropriate or inflammatory information may result in a professional warning sanction, probation, or dismissal. At Sacred Heart University, the Marketing & Communications Division has developed policies and guidelines to assist the student body in posting content and managing social media sites. Refer to the Sacred Heart University’s Social Media Sharing Guidelines on the university website. 2.9 Felony Conviction A felony conviction may affect a student’s ability to be placed in a clinical agency or institution. Criminal background checks must be completed at the student’s expense. The university and program will have no obligation to refund tuition or otherwise accommodate student in the event that a criminal background check, fingerprinting or drug screening render the student ineligible to complete required courses or clinical field experiences. Students should note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for certification examinations and/or attain employment. Any concerns should be communicated to the Program Director or the CT State Board of Nursing for advisement. 2.10 Unusual Occurrence Prompt reporting of unusual occurrences in clinical/laboratory settings is necessary to assure prompt administrative review and determination of appropriate actions, if any, with the involved faculty or student(s). Aggregate data will also be used to improve program aspects as appropriate though curricular revisions and policy clarifications. Students and/or faculty must complete an Unusual Occurrence Report (Appendix A) form when any of the following events happen in a clinical setting: • Medication error (actual or near miss) • Treatment error (actual or near miss) • Needle stick or other exposure • Student illness/injury requiring medical attention • Issues with correct medication counts • Violation of confidentiality (HIPAA, compliance standards) • Allegations of discrimination or sexual harassment • Other events that may reasonably affect patient care quality or student safety Procedure: Student must inform the clinical faculty immediately in cases where the student or patient has been injured or at high risk for serious consequences. Faculty will telephone the Program Director immediately in cases of student or patient injury. The Program Director will notify the Dean of the DHCON immediately if warranted by the seriousness of the incident. In incidents
that student or patient did not occur injury or high risk for serious consequences, the student must inform the clinical faculty by end of clinical day. Occurrence reports must be completed, signed by student and faculty within one (1) week of incident and submitted to the Program Director. The final report after the Program Director’s review should be delivered to the Office of the Dean of the DHCON within two (2) weeks of the incident. 2.11 Global Learning Programs The DHCON supports global learning for all degree programs. The goals for the global programs are to develop nursing competencies with greater awareness of global health issues, cultural competency, and social justice issues within context of the nursing profession. Global clinical field experiences and study abroad opportunities are offered in collaboration with community partners at various sites. Opportunities to apply to these programs are posted on the Sacred Heart University Office of Global Affairs website and through DHCON email correspondence. Interested students are required to complete the application for eligibility. Selection is based on the DHCON global learning rubric available in the Nursing Student Guides appendices. Students must be in good professional and academic standing in order to be eligible for participation in these programs. From time of acceptance to day of participation in these programs, any professional or clinical warning or academic probation that arises will be discussed for continued eligibility for participation with the faculty lead and program director. Specific to the clinical immersion program: The clinical immersion program will take place during the semester while classes are in session at the university. Students participating in these experiences will be required to complete classes in an alternate format for the portion of the classes held during the week(s) of the immersion. It is recommended that students who are accepted to participate in the clinical immersion program discuss the impact of their participation on their academic success with their academic advisor/instructor. A degree program track may choose to limit the number of clinical hours a student may accrue through global immersion experiences. 2.12 Student Advisory Representation The DHCON offers opportunity for nursing students in each degree program to be involved in the governance of the program and in the ongoing efforts to improve program quality. Every nursing student is enrolled in the DHCON Student Advisory Blackboard Organization. The organizational site serves as a central location where information can be disseminated to the student body for the DHCON. The College and each program post a formal presentation regarding the overall state of the college and program twice a year, in January and August. Students are encouraged to review the presentations and pose substantive inquiries and comments at the programmatic level to their Program Directors and the Associate Deans of the DHCON through the Blackboard site. Students from undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are invited to participate in the DHCON Faculty Assembly meetings to stimulate sharing of ideas with the overall goal of promoting program excellence.
Inquiries regarding individual course and instructor issues should be submitted through a different venue, private email with the Program Director or through end of course evaluations. 2.13 Selected University Policies The following policies are located on the SHU website as well as in the University Student Catalogs. The most updated information is found on the website. The following policies are highlighted below. Academic Integrity Sacred Heart University defines academic integrity as a commitment to the fundamental values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility on the parts of all University constituents, including students, faculty, administrators, and staff. The published policy statement defines in detail standards and penalties for violations, noting that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken for violations of academic integrity, including plagiarism, cheating, any use of materials for an assignment or an examination that is not permitted by the instructor, and theft or mutilation of intellectual materials or other University equipment. The University Academic Integrity Policy is found in the University undergraduate and graduate student catalogs. In addition, nursing students are not permitted to re-submit partial or entire work, which has been assigned a grade value in a previous course. Doing so constitutes self-plagiarism and violation of the Academic Integrity principle. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protections for persons with disabilities. Among other things this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If a student believes that he/she has have a disability requiring accommodation please contact the Jandrisevits Learning Center, Student Success Center, 5060 Park Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06825-1000, 203-371-7820 or visit their website. Sexual Assault Policy Sacred Heart University is committed to maintaining a learning, living, and working environment for the University community free of sexual assault. The Sexual Assault Policy describes the University’s policy toward sexual assault and zero tolerance policy towards rape. It also provides guidance for those who have been sexually assaulted, outlines the University’s disciplinary response to alleged incidents of sexual assault, and identifies the relevant organizations within the University responsible for managing the policy and programs associated with it. Sacred Heart University’s policy is intended to comply with relevant state and federal statutes and it applies to faculty, staff, and students. The University’s Sexual Assault Policy can be accessed online. Procedures for Individuals Claiming Unlawful Discrimination/Harassment A complaint procedure has been established to ensure prompt and effective investigation into allegations of discrimination including harassment, under Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Age Discrimination Act. Claims of harassment or discrimination are: (1) claims of violation of the University’s nondiscrimination policy, and (2) claims of violations of the University policy in opposition to harassment. The procedure for reporting unlawful
discrimination or harassment can be found under the Maureen Hamilton Wellness Center- Counseling & Health Services website. Accessibility Statement Sacred Heart University public-facing documents and course syllabi are accessible for all students. If a student is having difficult accessing a required course document, the student should communicate with the course faculty for assistance. All students are welcome to submit information through the Sacred Heart University accessibility barriers page, or by speaking with a Student Success Center staff member. Section III: RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing and RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing Online Program Specific Policies 3.1 Programmatic Student Learning Outcomes RN to BSN Student Learning Outcomes The Student Learning Outcomes are derived from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice. Upon completion of the BSN program, graduates will demonstrate the outcomes listed below: Essential I: Liberal Education for Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice A solid base in liberal education provides the cornerstone for the practice and education of nurses. Essential II: Basic Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Care and Patient Safety Knowledge and skills in leadership, quality improvement, and patient safety are necessary to provide high quality health care. Essential III: Scholarship for Evidence Based Practice Professional nursing practice is grounded in the translation of current evidence into one’s practice. Essential IV: Information Management and Application of Patient Care Technology Knowledge and skills in information management and patient care technology are critical in the delivery of quality patient care. Essential V: Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulatory Environments Healthcare policies, including financial and regulatory, directly and indirectly influence the nature and functioning of the healthcare system and thereby are important considerations in professional nursing practice. Essential VI: Interprofessional Communication and Collaboration for Improving Patient Health Outcomes
Communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals are critical to delivering high quality and safe patient care. Essential VII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health Health promotion and disease prevention at the individual and population level are necessary to improve population health and are important components of baccalaureate generalist nursing practice. Essential VIII: Professionalism and Professional Values Professionalism and the inherent values of altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, and social justice are fundamental to the discipline of nursing. Essential IX: Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice The baccalaureate graduate nurse is prepared to practice with patients, including individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations across the lifespan and across the continuum of healthcare environments. The baccalaureate graduate understands and respects the variations of care, the increased complexity, and the increased use of healthcare resources inherent in caring for patients. RN to BSN to MSN Student Learning Outcomes The student learning outcomes are derived from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials for Master’s Education in Nursing. Essential I: Background for Practice from Sciences and Humanities Recognizes that the Master’s-prepared nurse integrates scientific findings from nursing, biopsychosocial fields, genetics, public health, quality improvement, and organizational sciences for the continual improvement of nursing care across diverse settings. Essential II: Organizational and Systems Leadership Recognizes that organizational and systems leadership are critical to the promotion of high quality and safe patient care. Leadership skills are needed that emphasize ethical and critical decision making, effective working relationships, and a systems-perspective. Essential III: Quality Improvement and Safety Recognizes that a Master’s-prepared nurse must be articulate in the methods, tools, performance measures, and standards related to quality, as well as prepared to apply quality principles within an organization. Essential IV: Translating and Integrating Scholarship into Practice Recognizes that the Master’s-prepared nurse applies research outcomes within the practice setting, resolves practice problems, works as a change agent, and disseminates results. Essential V: Informatics and Healthcare Technologies Recognizes that the Master’s-prepared nurse uses patient-care technologies to deliver and enhance care and uses communication technologies to integrate and coordinate care.
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